Rating:
R
House:
Schnoogle
Characters:
Cho Chang Lord Voldemort
Genres:
General
Era:
Multiple Eras
Spoilers:
Philosopher's Stone Chamber of Secrets Prizoner of Azkaban Goblet of Fire
Stats:
Published: 06/07/2003
Updated: 07/07/2003
Words: 103,194
Chapters: 18
Hits: 14,481

Was it all enough? - Year 7

Sloth

Story Summary:
Was all the extra training enough? Voldemort returns very much annoyed. English Cup is played. Harry works with the Unspeakables again, gets his heart broken. Harry & Hermione learn some new magic. Someone close to Harry dies.

Chapter 10

Chapter Summary:
Was all the extra training enough? Voldemort returns very much annoyed. English Cup is played. Harry works with the Unspeakables again, gets his heart broken. Harry & Hermione learn some new magic. Someone close to Harry dies.
Posted:
06/19/2003
Hits:
810

Harry then realized that he had been working on getting more fire to cover him and his arms were totally in flames but of course not burning him. He laughed and sent the fire back to the lanterns in the room. "Hermione. This is what elemental magic is about. You can't go screaming about everything." He smiled at her. She was kind of embarrassed but he quickly said, "So, show me what you've done."

The water in the tub was calm and she focused and cast the spell and there were clearly significant ripples in the water. They stopped the second she stopped the spell. "Excellent! See, there's no doubt we'll pull this off," Harry exclaimed hugging her.

Hermione again was still just amazed by him and could just feel the power he had. Harry was so much further along than she was and yet he was just as happy for her as she had been. "It's not as impressive as yours. Do something with the water," she asked.

"Remember I've been practicing for over a month already. I had a head start." He focused on the water and caused it to make a small whirlpool in the middle before stopping.

Hermione hit him and said, "Ok, quit showing off. You should have just done this by yourself."

"Oh no. If you weren't doing this I would just take my minimum N.E.W.T.s and be happy. You'll be way better than me after you've gotten a couple months practice. C'mon that's enough for today," Harry said and they went back to the common room.

Harry was sitting very quietly thinking more about what Ron had said. Mr. Weasley considered running but just didn't have the money. Harry excused himself and went to the dorm and wrote a note.

Mr. Weasley

I hope you and your family are doing well. I've been thinking a lot about the Minister of Magic position. You know that I really don't trust Mr. Gallah and that I believe Fudge will be forced out soon. Is there any chance you would consider running for Minister of Magic? I couldn't think of anyone who would do a better job. I think we will all be in for trouble if Mr. Gallah got the position.

I've been doing some research into what it takes to run for the office, and I know it can cost a bit of money. I'm sure that Lucius Malfoy would fund Mr. Gallah in his campaign. You know that I've been lucky enough to get a contract for playing Quidditch for France, and R.J. left me her assets. I really don't need that much money and would be honored if you would let me contribute to your campaign if you do decide to run. My manager also says that Quidditch players often appear at fundraisers for people and I would also be willing to do that for you as well. I would like to contribute 20,000 galleons to your campaign and offer to attend a fundraiser. If it takes more, hopefully I could help out more. Please don't think of this as a gift. I'm very worried about how things would be if Gallah became Minister. If you decide to back someone else, I would be willing to donate some amount to his or her campaign as well, but I would rather support you.

I haven't told Ron or anyone here about this letter so if you decide you don't want this; they will never know I offered. Please consider how things would be if Mr. Gallah actually became Minister.

Harry

He folded up the note and put it in his robes. The next morning he ran up to the Owlery before breakfast and gave the note to Hedwig to deliver. That afternoon, only Ron was excited about the new Dark Art class. They took their seats with Harry and Hermione in front of Ron and Parvati. Professor Steiger walked in looking like a larger version of Snape. During role call, he didn't even glance up when Harry's name was called. This made Harry hopeful that he wouldn't be singled out like he had been in Snape's class. Harry had already read the first couple chapters of the book. None of the spells seemed that hard but Harry didn't really like learning spells that were specifically made to hurt people.

The professor had a thick German accent. "Let's get started. I'm glad your Minister of Education finally put his foot down and required this class to be taught. You can't spend your entire education only being exposed to one form of magic. How you choose to use this magic is a personal decision, but you should know how to use it."

Harry quickly raised his hand, "Yes Mr. Potter." The professor said before Harry continued. "Sir. Why would the Minister of Education want us to know how to inflict pain on others?"

Steiger smirked and asked, "Can any student answer Mr. Potter's question?"

Malfoy's had was quickly up. "Torture sir. To get information."

Another Slytherin said, "Intimidation." And yet another said, "Punishment."

Hermione raised her hand, which shocked Harry, "Yes Miss Granger."

"Power. To show who has the power," she said coldly.

Steiger looked directly into Harry's eyes and said, "Exactly. 10 points to Gryffindor."

Hermione had her head down the rest of class. They had just started with theory and Harry didn't pay attention since he had already read the chapters. After class Harry was walking with Hermione, "What did you mean power?"

"The Minister just wanted to show everyone that he had power over Dumbledore and how the school is run. This class isn't the point. The fact that he forced Hogwarts to allow a class like this is," Hermione said and continued walking.

Harry realized she was right. This was just Gallah letting everyone know he had some control over Hogwarts. Harry and Hermione were both quiet at supper. Harry was thinking about Gallah and what he really had planned.

The next day, Harry received his first Owl from Cho. She told him how things had been going and that she missed him very much. She also told him that her mother wanted them to get married in a large church near their home. Harry quickly wrote a response and sent it back.

On Friday right after lunch, Harry was sitting outside with Hermione when Sirius came up. "Sirius! What are you doing here?" Harry said hugging his godfather.

"Meeting with Dumbledore. How's your practice coming?" he asked.

Hermione spoke up quickly, "Coming along well. I'm actually able to make some small ripples in the water."

"After less than a week, that's pretty good. What about you Harry?" Sirius asked.

"Pretty good. I think Hermione will be passing me before long though. What's the meeting about?" Harry questioned.

"Can't say. I'm supposed to take you to Dumbledore's office. He wants to have a word with you. Bye Hermione," Sirius said. Harry shrugged his shoulders and followed Sirius up to Dumbledore's office. Upon entering the office, Harry was shocked to see Mr. and Mrs. Weasley there as well.

"Harry," Mrs. Weasley said before giving him a big hug. "How are you dear?"

"Fine Mrs. Weasley. Is everything ok? Why are you here?" Harry asked concerned.

"Everything is fine Harry, don't worry. Sit down," Dumbledore said. "Arthur told us about the note you sent him and we wanted to talk about it." Harry felt embarrassed but Dumbledore and Sirius looked happy. "We had been trying to convince Arthur to run for the Minister position for a while now without much success. It seems your note struck a cord with him and he has finally agreed."

Harry became excited. "Really? That's great Mr. Weasley. I know you'll do great."

Mr. Weasley spoke, "Harry. I don't really feel comfortable taking any of your money. I'm going to try to raise it myself."

Harry interrupted him. "That's not necessary! I play Quidditch for fun. It's just a bonus when they pay me. I can't think of anything better to do with the money than finance your campaign. Really. This is the only thing I can do to help. It would really mean a lot to me." Mr. Weasley turned red and started to protest but Harry cut him off. "Sirius, tell him that I don't really need the money and he should take it."

"Arthur. R.J. left Harry many times more money than he could ever hope to make playing Quidditch and he hasn't touched it. His parents left him a sizeable amount as well. If he gave away all his Quidditch money, he would still be just fine. Trust me," Sirius stated.

"I want you to be able to match Gallah and I know Malfoy will be financing him," Harry added feeling angry at the thought of Malfoy.

Mr. Weasley shifted uncomfortably but finally said, "If you're sure, I would appreciate your help."

"Excellent," Dumbledore said. "I told you Arthur that you had many people on your side. Now we should let Gallah handle pushing Fudge out and then when he does, you can announce your candidacy. Our sources say Fudge may be resigning as early as next week. Now Harry. Once Gallah realizes you are helping Arthur, the press may not be so kind to you. They will probably bring up all the things that have happened in the past. Are you comfortable with this?"


Harry could see Mr. & Mrs. Weasley looking down. "As long as that won't hurt Mr. Weasley's campaign, I'm fine with it. It's old news to me."

"It won't hurt me Harry. The vast majority of people in and out of the Ministry hold you in the highest regard. There is nothing Gallah could say that would change their minds. He would have to be very careful about getting any negative comments attributed to him as well. I still can't thank you enough," Mr. Weasley said shaking Harry's hand.

"No problem. Like you've always said, you're just like my family as well," Harry replied. "If you do win, get my access to the Unspeakable department restored. Gallah had it taken away."

The adults laughed but Mr. Weasley said, "I'm sure that would be no problem Harry."

Harry quickly said, "Want to go see Ron? I think he's right outside."

Harry walked out with the Weasley's and quickly found Ron and Ginny near Hermione. "Mum, Dad! What are you doing here?" Ginny ran over first hugging them.

"Meeting with Dumbledore," Was all Mr. Weasley said. Ron and Ginny both kept trying to get the real reason they were here out of them but neither of the parents said anything. Hermione kept looking at Harry and could tell he knew. The students had to get to class so they said goodbye and Mrs. Weasley gave Harry hug so big that even Ron and Ginny noticed.

"Does it seem like Mum likes Harry better than us?" Ginny joked.

When Hermione and Harry entered the classroom for practice, she immediately turned to him and said. "Ok, what's the real reason the Weasley's were here?"

"Now Hermione. Why would you think I know anything?" Harry said with a sly smile.

"You said no secrets this year and I'm holding you to it," she challenged.

"Are you promising me right now that you aren't keeping anything from me?" Harry looked intently at her. Hermione started to squirm. She hadn't told Harry everything about the connection they had during the orb. Suddenly Harry spoke again. "It doesn't matter. I'll tell you, but no one else can know, not even Ron." He went on to explain about the letter to Mr. Weasley and then about the meeting.

"I can't believe you're going to finance his campaign. That's so nice. It would be great if he won. I just can't believe you thought of this," Hermione said.

"So now you think that I'm too stupid to have a good idea," Harry smirked. "Ron can't know. There is no way he could keep quiet about it. Hopefully it will be out in the open in a week or two."

"I didn't mean it like that," Hermione said feeling bad about saying it. "It's just that you don't seem like the kid I've been going to school with for six years. That's a good thing though."

"Whatever you say Hermione," Harry said and then began practicing.

On Monday right after the post was delivered there was a lot of mumbling and Hermione told Ron and Harry to listen. "It says that Mr. Fudge is resigning as Minister of Magic as soon as a new minister can be elected. It says he is resigning for personal reasons, and goes on to say that immediately after this announcement, Mr. Gallah announced he is going to run for the office."

Harry just nodded at Hermione but Ron was angry. "I wish my dad would run. That Gallah can't be trusted."

Both Hermione and Harry wanted to tell Ron but promised they wouldn't. Ron was upset all day but received an owl that evening.

Ron

Make sure you have Ginny there when you read this.

I've decided to run for the Minister of Magic. I had been considering it for some time, but didn't think I could make a serious run. Harry wrote me a note last week offering to finance my campaign and gave me some reasons why he thought I should run and it helped me make the decision.

It will probably be announced tomorrow but I wanted to make sure you two knew before you read it in the paper. There may be some unpleasant articles in the Daily Prophet about me and/or Harry, but that's just part of the campaign. I plan on doing everything I can to win.

Love

Dad... And Mom

Ron and Ginny read the note a couple times before turning to Harry. "You knew? Why the hell didn't you tell me?" Ron exclaimed.

"I wasn't sure he would actually run and if I told you I offered to finance the campaign and he didn't run, you would have been mad at him. I promised your dad I wouldn't," Harry replied.

Both Ron and Ginny looked angry but Ginny quickly understood and gave Harry a big hug. "I can't believe you did this for my dad," she said with tears in her eyes. Ron was still looking angry but quickly realized Ginny was right and he hugged Harry as well. Not to feel left out, Hermione joined in the group hug.

They all pulled away and Ron was kind of red and said, "Harry, campaigns can cost a lot of money."

"Ron, I'm a professional Quidditch player stuck in this school with all of you. What else am I going to spend my money on? Besides, I bet Malfoy will finance Gallah's campaign," Harry said with a smile. Ginny hugged him again and Harry said, "Hey, he hasn't won yet. Not that I'm complaining about you hugging me Ginny just don't come and hit me if he doesn't win."

They all sat down and Ron and Ginny were working on a note to send back to their dad when Harry noticed Hermione staring at him. "What?" He asked.

"Oh nothing," Hermione said but then added. "You know you're really special Harry."

Harry leaned over to her and whispered, "Think logically Hermione. What are the odds that I'm going to actually live long enough to spend my money? If Mr. Weasley can win then it will help everyone, even if I'm gone."


Hermione was shocked because she could tell Harry was serious. She flashed back to the blackness she felt while connected to Harry. That must mean his death she thought. She was seriously considering talking to Dumbledore about it but she didn't know how to explain it without revealing the orb, which she promised not to do.

Hermione kept a close eye on Harry the next day and the only thing she noticed was Ron and Ginny being extra nice to him. That day in the Daily Prophet the article read.

Minister of Magic Position is now a Race!

Arthur Weasley from the Department of Muggle Affairs has announced his candidacy for Minister of Magic. Mr. Weasley is highly respected in the community and has worked closely with many officials. This announcement was a surprise to all involved. When asked for a comment, the Minister of Education said. 'I'm happy to have a challenger. The community should have choices for their Minister.' Mr. Weasley has a son who is currently an assistant to the Minister of Education and is widely expected to support the Minister of Education's campaign.

All the Gryffindors were congratulating Ron when they heard. "Do you think your father actually has a chance?" Turning around they saw Malfoy standing there. "He obviously has no idea what it costs to run a campaign."

Ron quickly added. "I think my dad is quite aware what it will take." Ron was too happy to let Malfoy get to him.

That night, Harry decided he better tell Cho about this before she read it. He wrote a note telling her about the campaign and telling her how much he missed her and had Hedwig deliver it.

The next day, the article in the Daily Prophet was again interesting.

Weasley Campaign for Minister Gets Surprise Financial Backing.

This reporter has learned that the Weasley campaign for Minister of Magic is being funded by none other than The Boy Who Lived; Harry Potter! France's star seeker has decided to back Arthur Weasley in his bid to become Minister of Magic. This is a surprise move that will surely increase Mr. Weasley's odds in the race. Mr. Weasley's campaign now has more assets at its disposal than the Minister of Education's campaign.

What was considered to be a run away win for the Minister of Education now has turned into a real fight.

"No more secrets now," Harry joked. The Gryffindors were once again talking to Harry and Ron when they heard.

"What do you think you're doing Potter? You should learn to invest your money better. I told you to choose sides better." Malfoy smirked.

"I'm choosing the winning side Malfoy. Same as I always have," Harry said smiling.

"My father will match what little you've done for the Weasley's and then some Potter," Malfoy spat.

"If I thought it would help, I'd give every dime I have to the Weasley's, Malfoy. Can you think of any person who would do that to help you or your father? Now, tell me who chose the right side," Harry said and turned away. Malfoy actually looked hurt and slinked off.

Ron and Ginny were both looking strangely at Harry. "What?" Harry asked.

"You wouldn't really give us all your money would you?" Ron asked.

"Of course I would! I'd do anything for you guys," Harry said and turned to Ginny. "Come on, aren't you going to hug me again?" then he smiled.

Harry received an own from Cho the next day.

Harry

I don't think you should have gotten involved in politics. The Minister of Education is very powerful and won't be happy that you're supporting his opponent. I guess it's too late now but I wish you had talked to me about this. It could cause a lot of negative publicity.

I love you

Cho.

This annoyed Harry and he showed the note to Hermione who agreed with him. "It's your money Harry. She is right that there may be negative press but still, it's what you wanted to do and I think it's the right thing."

There was an article in the next Daily Prophet about neighbors of two more Ministers being attacked and seeing the Dark Mark above their house. The article tried to pass it off as small time attacks. "Why won't they just admit Voldemort's back?" Harry asked.

"They don't want everybody to panic," Ron stated.

"Did people just go around in a constant state of panic before? It sounds to me like my parents and their friends still had fun. I think people would handle it just fine. They have a right to know," Harry stated loudly.

"Hey, I agree with you, but I don't think the Ministry wants to deal with it," Ron said.

Harry received an owl reminding him that the French Quidditch team started practices the next weekend. He was looking forward to playing again. Harry was still annoyed with Cho's note but it almost seemed that he just focused on studying and learning new magic more when he was upset now. He had actually turned completely invisible the next time he tried. He had written Cho back telling her how important he thought this was and that he didn't care about Gallah. He asked how things were going with the wedding plan and how her family was.

Hermione could tell Harry was annoyed but she was also debating on talking to Dumbledore about her connection to Harry. She finally decided to do it the next time the opportunity arose. Little did she know it would be the next day. Hermione was just leaving Arithmancy the next day when she almost ran into Dumbledore.

"I'm sorry Professor, I wasn't paying attention," she quickly said.

"Quite alright Miss Granger. After an Arithmancy lesson I can completely understand it. I understand you are doing an Extremely Advanced N.E.W.T. presentation with Harry. I trust you are both contributing to the outcome."

"Oh yes sir. I know that in the past Harry hasn't liked to do much studying outside of class but he's really committed to this project. In fact, I wanted to talk to you about something, do you have a minute?" Hermione asked.

Dumbledore looked at her and said, "Of course, let's go into this classroom, it shouldn't be occupied." They both went into a room and Dumbledore continued. "Now, what can I do for you?"

Hermione kind of squirmed but said, "Well, over the summer, something strange happened between Harry and me. We were studying when I tripped and when Harry grabbed me; we kind of had this connection." She didn't want to mention the orb or anything.

"What do you mean Miss Granger? This isn't anything that would be between Harry and Miss Chang now would it?" Dumbledore asked.

"No sir, nothing like that. It's just that when he grabbed me to keep me from falling, I kind of saw and actually felt many experiences he's had. I saw his parents getting killed and saw the curse being placed on him. I also saw him fighting Professor Quirrell and Voldemort in our first year. I saw him fighting the snake when Ginny was there and exactly what happened after the third task."

Dumbledore thought for a second and said, "Maybe you were just re-visiting things Harry had already told you."

"That's not it Professor. I now saw that Harry left out many details of the incidents. There were many things he didn't tell Ron or I. Much of the pain he felt or how scared he was, I now saw and felt."

"Did you tell Harry about this?" Dumbledore asked.

"Yes, I did. At first he was upset that I knew more than he wanted us to know but then he was ok with it."

"Well, I can't explain what happened, but if you and Harry are ok with it, than I don't see any problems," Dumbledore said and kept looking at Hermione. "But, you didn't tell Harry everything did you?"

Hermione looked down. "No sir I didn't. I think I saw some of the future. I felt how he felt when he was helping me up and then I also felt his heart breaking. I know it is in the future. Then, after that I felt guilt and then anger like I've never known and just as quick it changed into total blackness. There was nothing. I'm worried what it all means."

Dumbledore looked at her. "Well we will just have to wait and see how things play out. He is a seventeen-year-old boy, so having his heart broken wouldn't be unheard of. Let's just see how things go from here. I wouldn't suggest telling him about this extra information."

"Thank you sir," Hermione said and then thought more. "Professor. Do you know how when you do magic you can just feel it flowing out your wand?"

"I've heard Miss Granger," the Headmaster said this but didn't really answer the question.

"Well I asked Harry about this and he said that he doesn't feel any different. Even when he is doing advanced spells, he says that he can't tell any difference. When we had this connection, I think I realized that he is much more powerful than I ever imagined. Even now, I can almost feel the magic around him."

Dumbledore looked at her with a twinkle in his eye. "Does that concern you?"

Hermione didn't expect that question. "Um... No, it doesn't concern me. It actually feels good to be around him. Do you know how powerful he really is?"

Dumbledore smiled again and said, "I have my suspicions Miss Granger. I understand you've been able to convince him to study and even practice magic over the summer."

"Yes sir. He's been working quite hard," Hermione stated.

"Harry has had two years of no serious incidents and has been able to spend the summers being around other magical people. Before that, he had to work to keep the magic suppressed over the summer. Now, he's being made to feel like it is a good thing to be magical all year." The Headmaster hesitated, looking directly at Hermione. "I often wonder what would come about if your thirst for knowledge was somehow combined with Harry's magical ability," Dumbledore said. She could tell that was the end of the conversation and she headed

That night at practice, Hermione spent more time watching Harry than actually practicing. She could just feel the magic around him. He just did things so naturally and without any effort. Sure, he may say he didn't get it but after only a couple tries, he always made progress. She knew that her progress was due to research and learning technique, but that wasn't what made Harry progress. On the way back to the common room, Hermione asked, "Harry. Do you regret that we have to study so much and work so hard because of our project?"

Harry seemed shocked. "Of course not Hermione. I know it sounds weird, and a couple of years ago, I wouldn't have said this but I'm enjoying what we're doing. I am really having fun learning all this new stuff. I can't believe I'm turning into one of your kind but I'm not complaining," he lightly hugged her.

This made her feel really good. She knew everyone thought she was no fun and always wanted to study and actually felt guilty about it. Hearing Harry say that he was enjoying it really made her feel good.

Once back to the common room, Harry wrote another note to Cho.

Cho

I really miss you.

Now, as my manager, can you help me setup a fundraiser for Mr. Weasley? What can I do to help raise some more money for his campaign? You're the brains behind us so I need your help.

Did I mention that I really miss you?

I love you

Harry

He quickly found Hedwig and sent the note.

One evening before supper, Dumbledore made an announcement about their being two balls again this year with Beauxbatons. One would be held before the holiday break at Hogwarts and one near Valentines' Day at Beauxbatons. Harry had expected something like this but was kind of worried. He wanted to go but knew he couldn't ask Hermione or Ginny because Cho would be upset. He decided to put it off for a while.

Harry received a response from Cho during the week.

Harry

I miss you too.

I don't think you should do any more campaigning for Mr. Weasley. It isn't wise to get involved in politics, specifically against the current Minister of Education.

If you want to do fundraisers, make them for something less controversial.

I hope to see you soon.

Cho.

This really annoyed Harry, so he quickly wrote another note.

Sirius.

I want to do a fundraiser for Mr. Weasley but my manager thinks it's a bad idea. She thinks I should be doing fundraisers less controversial causes. I think that's a good idea as well, but right now, I want Mr. Weasley to have a chance at getting the Minister position.

Do you have any ideas?

Harry

Harry quickly sent this with Hedwig. Harry started Quidditch practice this weekend and everything seemed quite comfortable. He liked the way the team was playing together. Harry received a response from Sirius the following week.

Harry

I think a fundraiser is a great idea. I can set something up for you. I'll have it ready three weeks from Saturday and I'll clear it with Dumbledore. If you can convince any of the English Quidditch players to come it would help a lot. I'm really proud of you getting involved like this.

Sirius

Harry quickly wrote a note to the coach of the English Quidditch team.

Mr. Simpson

I know we've never met, but we are both English residents and concerned about the future of our community. I am hosting a fundraiser for Mr. Arthur Weasley who is running for Minister of Magic. Having England's popular players at this fundraiser would make a huge difference in the turnout. If you would pass this along to any of your players, I would really appreciate it. In fact, in gratitude, I would gladly help you with any fundraiser you have planned in the future. I know that we play for different teams, but I do live in England and am greatly concerned about this election.

Thank you

Harry Potter

Harry sent this letter with Hedwig. He didn't tell anyone about the fundraiser in case something didn't work out.

Harry was actually enjoying all of his classes except for the Dark Arts one. He didn't know how things would be once they actually started practicing the spells. All of the Gryffindors were worried about this as well. Hermione kept saying there was no way Professor Steiger would have them practice on each other but Harry didn't agree with her.

The next week, Harry received a note from the coach of the English team.

Harry

I must say your note surprised me. It's too bad we weren't in need of a seeker when you started playing, having you play for England would have been a real crowd pleaser.

Most of the players don't like to get involved in politics, but fortunately a couple of them have friends or relatives in the Ministry and feel personally involved in the election. Keith Warner our seeker and Martin Shales our keeper have agreed to be part of the fundraiser. They both know people who think highly of Mr. Weasley. Just send the date and time to me and I'll pass it on. And, I may hold you to attending one of our fundraisers. Nothing political I assure you.

Neil Simpson

Excellent Harry thought and quickly responded with the date and time. Harry also told Sirius about this. Quickly he wrote Cho a note as well.

Cho

I miss you a lot.

I really wanted to do a fundraiser so Sirius is setting one up. The seeker and keeper from the English Quidditch team agreed to come as well, so it won't be just me. I asked Sirius to tell you when it is and I really hope you will come over to it. I want to see you really bad.

I love you

Harry

Most classes were going by quickly, but History of Magic and Potions just seemed to drag on. Harry slept through most of History of Magic but knew he couldn't do anything to annoy Snape in his potions class so he had to make sure he did everything correctly. Mostly Harry liked his free DADA period where he could study anything he wanted. Lately he had been reading his 'Pathways to the Mind' book. Instead of trying to learn to read minds, he was focused on the chapters about using the mind as a weapon. One spell seemed to work like a virtual boggart. It projected the thing the other person feared the most. They should really feel like their biggest fear is happening to them. Harry kept coming back to those chapters.

Harry didn't like the Dark Arts class either. The students had already started casting pain curses on each other. Each curse was different, but they could all be blocked using similar techniques that Professor Figg would try to teach as soon as she learned which pain spells were being taught. The Slytherins were really enjoying the Dark Arts class and were all too happy when practice started.

Harry had gotten permission to go to the fundraiser right after Quidditch practice. Practice felt like it was taking forever but Harry was sure this was because for once, he was anxious for it to be over. After the coach finally released, them Harry planned on heading directly to the locker room for a shower and then to Diagon Alley. However while he was walking toward the locker room he heard.

"Schoolboy." Turning around he saw Kristi coming behind him. "Didn't you think I'd fit in with your fundraiser?"

"How did you know about that?" Harry asked quickly.

"I keep up with things. Any reason you didn't ask me to come?" she asked seriously.

"I didn't want to bother you. Since you live and work in France, I didn't think it would be important to you. I only asked players on the English team to come." Harry looked at her and added. "However, if there is any way you have some free time, it would really help if you would come with me."

She looked at him for a second and then smiled and said, "I'd be glad to help you out. You should have asked right away. I know how much you hate the press so if you're doing something like this, it must be for a good reason."

"Thanks Kristi! I really owe you for this," Harry exclaimed.

"C'mon we should get cleaned up before we go," she said and they both went to have a shower. She had brought nice clothes the same as Harry had.

"It looks like you planned on coming all along," Harry said.

"I knew I could convince you it was a good idea," she joked back before the two apparated to the Quidditch Supply Shop in Diagon Alley.